TESTIMONIALS
Don’t let a smile fool you! Behind every smile is a journey, and Kenny’s story inspires others to uncover their courage, resilience, and sense of purpose. As a seasoned motivational speaker and keynote presenter, Kenny has reached countless individuals, empowering them to embark on their paths of self-discovery and personal growth. His transformative storytelling serves as a guiding light for those seeking the strength to achieve their goals and realize their potential.
Kenny Ollins shares his life experiences through motivational speaking, serving as a powerful voice to help men and women avoid life’s pitfalls. His candid honesty, delivered with a unique style, makes even hard truths easier to absorb. Kenny’s purpose isn’t to wound with his words but to prevent you from harming yourself. He champions personal growth and inspires change.
I applaud Kenny for being a true leader who openly shares his own flaws while refusing to let his past—or yours—be an excuse to remain stuck. His approach, though sometimes as direct as a drill sergeant’s, is rooted in care and determination. Kenny will coach you out of the gutter and won’t let you stay in that low place. His words are a gift to many, and his impact is undeniable.
-LaSavine Givens
I have had the honor of knowing Kenny for over 30 years, and throughout that time, he has been a constant source of motivation, focus, and discipline. While many people ‘talk the talk,’ Kenny truly ‘walks the walk.’ He genuinely cares about the state and future of our community. Time and again, through his actions, Kenny has reminded me that we cannot stand on the sidelines and complain. Each of us must roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty.
-Kenny Young
I met Kenny years ago when we attended Southern Illinois University in the late 80's. Even then I saw how he was a positive role model and mentor to students and youth on the campus though we only knew each other in passing. His positive energy then was something I looked up to though he didn't know it, and even tried to model back then.
We recently reconnected in the early months of 2013 and when he described what he was doing I was not surprised to find out he continues to extend himself to those he comes in contact with. He is always good for positive words of wisdom, and when I was going through a tough time (and am not through it yet) Kenny was the person I reached out to. Rather than turn away someone who was truly hurting and depressed, Kenny embraced me and bonded with my time of need. His words really uplifted me that evening and he promised to be there if I needed an ear on future dates. While I am not through with what brought me down that weekend, I am certainly not as low as I was and it was due to speaking with Kenny that possibly prevented me from doing something (or harming myself) that I would have truly regretted.
I could go on but there are not enough words in the English language nor enough hours in the day to describe how great a man like Kenny is. I look forward to the day he accomplishes his goals and dreams in regards to his talk show but in the mean time, I am proud to know that he is touching the lives of many others through his speaking engagements and mentorships. I will certainly continue to reach out to him often as his words are truly ones of wisdom and that help me get through my days.
Extremely Enthusiastically,
-Dr. Marc K. Bickham
When I first heard about Kenny I was eager to hear more about his journey and story. After I heard his story, I was absolutely intrigued and inspired by the amazing work he is doing. Kenny is a great communicator and he speaks in such a way that he is able to connect with all humanity. His deep conviction, transparency and courage has inspired me and motivated me to do even greater things in my life. I guarantee you that once you hear him speak you will be challenged to look at your life and make some changes. More importantly, you will be inspired to heal the wounds of your past and embrace a whole new life.
-Jamelle D. Sanders
President/CEO, Jamelle Sanders International
Kenny Ollins delivers a message of hope and the understanding that one can achieve anything if they put their mind to it. Kenny Ollins dedication to all responsibilities he undertake, including CEO/Creator/Talk Show Host at The B.O.R.N Show and professional model, is nothing short of admirable as he is an inspiration to all he comes in contact with. Known also for his compelling charisma, Kenny Ollins has emerged as a fresh and innovative voice of hope, courage, and inspiration to audiences nationwide of all sizes. With his unwavering reassurance and sunny disposition, Kenny Ollins’ uplifting and contagious stage presence only serves to strengthen the core values at the heart of his messages: That we are who we are not just for the events that shape our lives, but also for how we react to those events.
From his growing-up years in the austere world of Chicago’s Cabrini-Green Projects, to his long tenure in the Juvenile Justice field, Kenny Ollins draws upon his often hard-nosed life experiences with an effervescent mix of humor and optimism, to teach others how to unlock the hidden potential and unwavering resilience that lie deep within each of us. His strength lies in his awe-inspiring ability to show others how to turn obstacles into opportunities, and stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
A man of firm principles and steadfast values, Kenny Ollins is making his mark as a man with a mission and a message. Having known Kenny professionally and personally for 32 years, I can say that I have been given a great amount of glory and validation as a result of our relationship. Based on his personal characteristics, his intellect, and his understanding of how to overcome obstacles despite the hand you’re dealt, it is without reservation that I recommend him as a motivational speaker.
-Andre Lewis
Director, Graduate Admission
College of Education
KO! You are such a phenomenal man. Your heart is bigger than earth. You're constantly blessing others. I look at all of the accomplishments you've made over the years and how steadfast you are on improving relationships within our community. It takes a village and you are a great part of that plan. So, please know that you are a huge part of who we are as well. I have looked at myself and some of my past decisions (good, bad or indifferent) because of comments made by you. Keep doing you! So looking forward to the new things on the horizon with you and BORN! Hugs and love sir
-Tanya Bennett
Kenny, I read your inspiring and mind provoking posts everyday and I love how you not only bless people by your words but by your actions. God is truly using you. I am honored to know such an awesome man! Keep doing what you do!!!
-Daphne Suggs-Flores
I had the pleasure of attending one of Kenny Ollins BORN events and I was not disappointed. I found him to be authentic and transparent when dealing with the current state of male/female relationships. His insight is superb and should be heard by all.
-AF
Although I don't know Kenny personally, I do know that he is a humble, positive and inspirational man. His messages to people young and old is the same - give 100%, be true to yourself, work hard, help others; love your family, yourself and God. As a woman, I appreciate him asking questions that we are sometimes afraid to ask ourselves - and he makes us think first and then answer. He's a blessing to us all.
-Darlene DeJohnette